Tack Box

Purchase: Shipping boots

• Considerations: Boots that provide full coverage from the coronary band to the knee/hocks offer the greatest protection for your horse’s limbs. But, of course, to do their job, boots need to fit properly and stay on. Durability is also an important consideration, particularly if you haul your horse frequently. • Options: Shipping boots range from simple fleece varieties that can be used on any leg to boots made of shock-absorbing materials that are contoured for front or hind limbs. Contoured boots tend to stay in place better, but only if they fit well. The majority of closures on modern shipping boots are Velcro, but their placement, size and number can greatly affect the stability of the boots. On many shipping boots the coronary/ heel area is reinforced with heavy vinyl plates for extra protection.

• Price: Shipping boots start around $40 for the most simple pair and can cost as much as $180 for a higher-end set of four.